Department of Chemistry

The Chemical Laboratories of Muir College formed the nucleus of University Department of Chemistry and Prof. N. R. Dhar who was attached to the college as a member of the Indian Education Service, become the first University Professor. After his retirement from the department, Prof. Dhar devoted his full time activities in the Shila Dhar Institute of Soil Science, which was founded by a magnificent donation by him to the University. Professor S. Dutta started systematic research work in organic chemistry, when he joined the department in 1925.

Chemistry is the core department of the faculty of science, University of Allahabad, having on its rolls the largest member of students and the teaching faculty comprising professors, readers and lecturers. There are nearly 585 students at undergraduate level, about 150 at P.G. stage and approximately 100 research scholars.

At undergraduate level this department offers courses of study for students from both streams viz. Physical sciences and biological sciences. At P.G. level specialization is available on organic, inorganic, physical and analytical chemistry. Students have choice of one elective paper. A two-year M. Sc. course in agricultural chemistry and soil science is being run at Sheila Dhar Institute of Soil Science.

The department specializes in varied fields of research. Research activities have got a boost due to grants received from the U.G.C., which has selected the department for special assistance programme. Substantial grants have also been received from U.G.C under COSIST Programme. Individual research projects sponsored by funding agencies viz. DST, DBT, CSIR, ICAR, INSA, Department of Atomic Energy.